An Indiana Michigan Power representative was on hand at Thursday night’s Mishawaka-Penn-Harris Public Library board meeting to deliver a $10,745 rebate check for recent energy-efficient lighting upgrades that were implemented at the Harris Branch.
The 24,400-square-foot library was renovated last year and was reopened in October. Hundreds of lighting fixtures were replaced with LED energy-efficient lights during the renovation.
The annual electricity cost at the Harris Branch on average was approximately $27,600 each year before the upgrades; the new LED technology is estimated to save around $11,240 annually.
“Comparing our electric bills, prior to, and following the LED lighting upgrade is an eye-opener and proves LED lamps are far more energy efficient and cost-effective,” said MPHPL Director of Operations Dena Wargo.
According to I&M Power, LED bulbs use 90% less energy than traditional light bulbs and last up to 25 times longer. Replacing just one standard bulb with an LED option can save $14 a year or more. In addition to monetary savings, investments in efficient lighting technology positively impact the environment.
“The LED upgrades allow our Harris Branch staff and patrons to benefit from a brighter environment and at the same time, we are reducing library operating costs for taxpayers – plus reducing our carbon footprint,” said MPHPL Director Donna Meeks.
Currently the downtown Mishawaka Library is undergoing LED lighting upgrades, and the project is expected to be completed sometime this year.
Learn more about the Harris Branch renovation by visiting our MPHPL article.
To learn more about Indiana Michigan Power rebates and incentives, visit ElectricIdeas.com/SBDI.